Rochy airs it out against Western Beaver

INDUSTRY -- As the season has developed, Rochester has shown an impressive ability to run the ball and play defense.

Saturday afternoon at Rich Niedbala Field, the Rams completed their arsenal, showing their ability to pass as Ben Richko completed five of six passes for 169 yards and three touchdowns in a 41-6 win over Western Beaver.

“The running game has opened it up and the line has done a good job in protection,” said Richko, who now has 393 yards passing and seven touchdowns on the season. “I’m getting the opportunity to throw and the guys are getting open. It feels good to have success.”

Richko’s first scoring pass was a 20-yarder to Jay Ratti, followed by a short pass to Dante Marsick that he turned into a 74-yard scoring play, and a 20-yarder to Alyjah Elmore. Marsick scored the other three touchdowns on running plays of 65, 1, and 23 yards.

“The kids did a good job getting out to a fast start,” said Rochester coach Gene Matsook. “In the last two weeks, Ben has been doing a good job staying in and throwing rather than scrambling.”

The key to Rochester’s offense remains a solid line that allowed the Rams to average almost 11 yards per play.

“We know the offensive line carries the team,” said senior lineman/linebacker Mike Bittenbender. “It doesn’t matter who runs the ball or if we throw or who scores, we know that’s how this team wins.”

Rochester built the 41-0 lead by halftime and kept the clock running in the second half. Western Beaver’s lone touchdown came on a 7-yard run by Zach Perry, who finished with 52 yards on the ground. Rochester didn’t fare as well in the second half, losing two fumbles and an interception by Western Beaver’s John Sosack.

“Overall, we did well but we can’t be as up and down mentally as we’ve been,” said Matsook. “We have to stay focused regardless of the clock or the scoreboard or the officials or whatever.

“We have to be ready to play four quarters.”

Next week, the Rams may have to play four quarters as they host equally unbeaten Neshannock. Based on the Neshannock apparel in the stands, it’s a safe assumption Neshannock knows Rochester can pass now, too.